Group Classification: Short Hair/Exotic
Country of Origin: Attributed to Abyssinia (today's Ethiopia), bred in UK
Date of Origin: mid-1800s, first shown 1930's
Weight (M): 7-10 lbs.
Weight (F): 6-8 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 15 years

History
Due to their resemblance to cats in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, many believe the Abyssinian comes to us in direct descent from the time of the pharaohs. There is some evidence, however, that the progenitors of today's breed were mistakenly identified by British soldiers as being from Abyssinia or other parts of Africa. The British withdrew from Abyssinia in 1868 and at the war's end, the progenitor of this breed was brought home to England. Shortly thereafter, this cat is mentioned in writings of the day. The Abyssinian has been part of cat shows since the 1800s and may be related to the African wild cat.

General Description
Lithe and graceful, these are muscular cats, a bit bulkier than most Oriental shorthairs. Wide-set expressive eyes (in amber, hazel or green) dominate the Abyssinian face, along with large cupped ears set wide apart. Often their ears are tufted, which makes for an even more dramatic appearance. Whatever their coat color, Abyssinians have cream colored chins. Their tail, which is the same length as their body, is always tipped in the ticking color. There are no markings on tail or neck or legs, which are slender leg and end in small feet. Beautiful in form and line, it is the nearly translucent quality of the Abyssinian's fur that dazzles most observers.

Colors
Blue, cream, fawn, lilac, red and ruddy (Usual)

Coat
Fine and close-lying, the Abyssinian's high-sheen coat is ticked overall.'Ticked' indicates that each hair is banded with two or three colors. At least four bands of darker ticking colors are required in show cats. Underparts have no ticking. Four to six bands of pigment along the cat's body are the normal marking.

Notable Features
The unique translucency of the Abyssinian's fur is due to a single gene that gives each hair dark bands over a light background.

Health and Care
Little grooming is required for these sleek beautiful cats beyond an occasional bath, since the Abyssinian's coat is shiny without regular brushing.
Their predisposition to dental tartar and plaque build-up can lead to gingivitis, so Aby owners should routinely brush their companion's teeth (using a cat toothpaste and a soft child's toothbrush). This is a social breed that thrives on companionship and regular activity. Abyssinians are affectionate, but prefer to sit by themselves or next to a favorite human, rather than lose any dignity by lolling on someone's lap or shoulders. Intelligent and loyal, they remain curious and playful throughout their lives. Genetically susceptible to renal amyloidosis and PK deficiency.

Resource
Abyssinian Cat Club of America, (480) 893-7695. www.abyworld.com